History

Inclusion.

If someone were to ask us to provide one word that describes the Frisbie Senior Center, that would be it.

In 1975, representatives from the City of Des Plaines and Des Plaines Park District recognized the need to provide dedicated services to the senior population living in the community. After convening with senior residents and discussing their wants and needs, a “senior center” program was established, catering mainly to the 70+ age group and offering the traditional Arts-Bingo-Crafts activities.

Meeting in the basement of Immanuel Lutheran Church’s rectory, this newly-formed group would often congregate and “read a little, play cards, visit and socialize.”  One year later, the founding members of this group decided to formally incorporate in order to better organize its activities. On August 11, 1976 the Des Plaines Community Senior Center (DPCSC) was born.

Around 1980, the organization’s need for program space increased exponentially as the participant base grew. The City of Des Plaines agreed to provide rent-free space in the former West Division School (now The Willows Academy).

Three major changes soon followed:

The Director became the first full-time employee.

The part-time Program Director and Assistant Program Director positions were created.

The Advisory Board transitioned into a formal governing board made up of local businesses.

Due to the eventual building deterioration, the Des Plaines Park District allowed DPCSC to occupy a separate wing for senior activities in the new Prairie Lakes Recreation Center. The arrangement saw DPCSC maintaining the drop-in and service-oriented programs, whereas the Park District managed events, trips, and classes. This arrangement eventually retransitioned towards DPCSC handling all programming.

In 2003, American Superstores (parent company of Osco Drug) announced the closing of their store located at Northwest Highway and Mount Prospect Road. With a $1 million donation from long-time member Eva Frisbie, DPCSC secured the location and remains there to this day.

As a fitting tribute to Eva, the Des Plaines Community Senior Center was officially renamed the Frisbie Senior Center. Located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, our facility encompasses more than 20,000 square feet of ADA accessible space, which can be tailored to specific programming. Frisbie is a drop-in activity and wellness center tailored to the needs of people over 50 years of age.

To help the Frisbie Senior Center continue to grow, or to learn more about our mission, please click ones of the links below.